Seeking advice on what to plant on NE corner. Looking for color.

Cal_00November 15, 2013

Hi, first off I hope this is the correct place to post my question, if not I apologize and if you could direct me to the right place I'd really appreciate it.

I'm helping my father redo his landscape and wanted to start off by giving the front yard some color. As you can see from the picture, my father seems to like conifers more then any other plant/tree. The taller Dwarf Alberta Spruce that is in a red circle on the picture is the one we are looking to replace with something that can give out some nice color contrast. The location of the Alberta Spruce is directly on the NE side of the house. It only gets morning sun from sunrise to around 11:30A.M. He is very open to try other plants/trees. If you have any ideas to what I could plant there that won't get to tall (above 15') and that will work for the location and USDA zone 5B please let me know. I am at a loss as to what could go there but I'm in the dark when it comes to shade planting. Any advice and help woukd be very much appreciated.

A little info on the yard layout and soil:

- Clay Soil
- He does have a large Emperor 1 Japanese Maple in the front yard as well.
- Sun from sunrise to 11:30A.M

A better photo of the front yard would help. It looks like there are two Arborvitaes planted along the front walk? Not sure what kid they are, In a few years they probably will out grow their space. I would consider moving both to a location that will allow them to grow, ( mature size maybe 12ft h, by 4-5ft wide)
I suggest - to Measure the beds, ( my guess maybe 6 -7 ft deep) then go to you local nursery ( not big box store) and ask them if they have a narrow, gold hinoki cypress that will fit in that space. You are 5 B zone and I believe, that may work. However the nursery where you live will give the best advise, since they know what does best in your area. Also consider some of the fancy Hosta, that are gold color , Or Heuchra ( maroon color leaves) They will brighten up or add color to the front, with out flowers.